Jackson, NJ dentist, Dr Balaji Srinivasan of Aesthetic Dental Creations, says the debate has long been brewing over the safety of silver fillings (amalgam fillings). Silver fillings contain mercury, which studies show can be released from the filling and absorbed by the body. Many Jackson residents are turning to Dr Srinivasan to remove their silver fillings and replace them with composite, or tooth colored fillings.

Mercury is known to be one of the most toxic substances to the human body. The mercury released from fillings is absorbed primarily as highly toxic elemental mercury vapor and studies claim side effects can include gastrointestinal problems, sleep disturbances, concentration problems, memory disturbances, Alzheimer’s disease and more.

Dr Srinivasan says that there is conclusive research which suggests the mercury in silver fillings is high enough to cause health consequences. However, he says there is no reason for NJ residents to panic. “The Dental community has not yet called for the extraction of all silver fillings. I want my patients to know that for those who are concerned, there is an alternative,” says Dr Srinivasan.

Jackson dental patients and others in the Ocean County area are opting for the safer alternative. The alternative Dr Srinivasan is referring to is composite, or tooth colored fillings. Dr Srinivasan says more of his Jackson dental patients are requesting composite fillings, for many different reasons. “For many, the mercury in amalgam is viewed as potentially toxic. Additionally, composite is more esthetic since it blends in with the natural tooth color. For these reasons, many patients now request white fillings.”

Dr Srinivasan says there are many additional advantages to white fillings including:

• Composite fillings bond to the teeth and restore most of the tooth’s original strength.
• Composite fillings blend in seamlessly.
• Composites are mercury-free.
• Composites require less removal of the tooth structure.

Many Jackson dental patients are choosing composite over silver fillings. “At the end of the day, the patient has to feel comfortable with their choice. It’s our job to educate them so they can make an informed decision, one they will feel good about,” says Dr Srinivasan